The NRL market has been in full swing for 2023 with several stars switching clubs ahead of the new season.
NRL.com takes a look at the major transfers and how your club will benefit from a star arrival.
Mitchell Barnett (Warriors)
- Age: 28
- Position they’ll fill: Second row/front row
- Contracted until: 2025
What Barnett can bring
After seven seasons with the Knights in which he forged a reputation as a hard-running edge and middle player, Barnett arrives at the Warriors as part of a new-look forward pack which is set to be their major strength in 2023.
His confrontational style adds another dimension to what is already a skillful pack featuring plenty of experience at both NRL and representative level, and the amount of work Barnett gets through on both sides of the footy should free up players like Tohu Harris and allow them to better execute their natural game.
In each of his last three seasons with Newcastle, Barnett averaged over 100 run metres per game and last year he averaged 13 runs and 32 tackles across 14 appearances.
Barnett gives the Knights a lifeline
Why it’ll work
Barnett has already become a popular member of the Warriors' squad and impressed plenty with his professionalism and application through the pre-season.
His ability to shift between the second row and middle of the park means he will be of huge value to coach Andrew Webster, with the Warriors' depth in both of those positions looking extremely lean at the time of writing.
Provided he can find the right balance and avoid encounters with the Judiciary, his aggressive approach will be a welcome addition to this Warriors side, and he will give them another senior voice on the field during periods when Addin Fonua-Blake and Tohu Harris are having rests.